Best MBA in Cybersecurity Management
An MBA in Cybersecurity Management is designed for professionals who want to lead cybersecurity strategy, risk management, and IT security governance. This specialization focuses on cyber defense, digital forensics, regulatory compliance, and business continuity planning, equipping graduates with the expertise to protect organizations from cyber threats and ensure data security.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for information security analysts is projected to grow 35% from 2021 to 2031, making cybersecurity one of the fastest-growing fields in business and technology. Additionally, the median salary for cybersecurity managers is $164,070, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals who can safeguard business assets and prevent data breaches ( BLS). A report by Cybersecurity Ventures predicts that cybercrime damages will cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, underscoring the urgent need for cybersecurity leadership ( Cybersecurity Ventures).
An MBA in Cybersecurity Management specialization is ideal for professionals seeking to lead corporate cybersecurity initiatives, mitigate cyber risks, and develop enterprise security policies.
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What is an Online MBA in Cybersecurity Management?
An Online MBA in Cybersecurity Management provides a flexible pathway for professionals to develop expertise in cyber risk assessment, data protection, and compliance management while continuing to work. These programs focus on security governance, ethical hacking, cloud security, and digital risk management, preparing students for executive leadership in cybersecurity.
Students gain expertise in penetration testing, network security, and cyber resilience strategies, ensuring they are well-equipped to defend against cyber threats and implement risk mitigation solutions. Many online programs include cybersecurity simulations, threat intelligence exercises, and incident response training, offering hands-on experience in tackling cybersecurity challenges.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for an MBA in Cybersecurity Management?
Admissions requirements for an MBA in Cybersecurity Management vary by program but typically include the following.
- Bachelor’s Degree – From an accredited institution, often in business, IT, computer science, or a related field.
- Work Experience – 2-5 years of professional experience in IT security, risk management, or information systems is preferred.
- GMAT/GRE Scores – Some programs require standardized test scores, while others offer waivers.
- Personal Statement – Discussing career goals and why the applicant is pursuing an MBA in Cybersecurity Management.
- Letters of Recommendation – Typically from employers, IT executives, or academic mentors.
- Resume – Highlighting experience in cybersecurity, network security, or risk management.
Is an MBA in Cybersecurity Management the Right Specialization for You?
An MBA in Cybersecurity Management specialization is best suited for professionals who are detail-oriented, proactive, and interested in safeguarding digital assets. If you are passionate about ethical hacking, threat intelligence, and cybersecurity governance, this specialization will provide the necessary skills for career advancement.
Compared to other MBA specializations, such as Technology Management or MBA in Information Systems, an MBA in Cybersecurity Management focuses on risk mitigation, security frameworks, and compliance with cybersecurity regulations. If you want to lead enterprise security initiatives and combat cyber threats, this program may best fit you.
2025 Best MBA in Cybersecurity Programs
Looking for the best MBA in Cybersecurity programs? mbaschools.org ranks top schools to help you decide. Our list focuses on programs that blend business skills with cybersecurity expertise. We look at factors like curriculum, faculty, and career outcomes. Find a program that fits your goals and starts your journey in this fast-growing field. Learn how we rank schools at https://www.mbaschools.org/methodology/.
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, MO - Private 4-year - slu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Louis University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity delivers a comprehensive online learning experience designed to empower professionals in digital defense strategies. The program strategically prepares students to navigate complex cyber threat landscapes through advanced technical training and industry-aligned curriculum. By focusing on threat response, mitigation, and recovery techniques, graduates develop robust skill sets applicable across corporate and public sector environments. The flexible online format enables working professionals to enhance their cybersecurity expertise without disrupting current career trajectories.
- Online Master's degree in Cybersecurity
- Curriculum developed with industry partners
- Prepare for corporate and public cybersecurity roles
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Louis University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity with Organizational Leadership concentration provides a strategic approach to digital security management. This innovative program bridges technical expertise with leadership principles, enabling professionals to effectively guide cybersecurity initiatives. Students learn comprehensive strategies for threat mitigation, response protocols, and organizational risk management. The curriculum emphasizes developing adaptive leadership skills crucial for navigating complex technological challenges in both corporate and public sector environments.
- Online master's degree in cybersecurity
- Industry-designed curriculum with practical skills
- Prepares professionals for diverse cyber roles
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Applied Analytics - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Louis University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity with Applied Analytics concentration offers a data-driven approach to digital security challenges. This specialized online program equips professionals with advanced analytical skills to predict, detect, and respond to emerging cyber threats. Students learn sophisticated techniques for transforming complex data into actionable security insights, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and methodological frameworks. The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of how data analytics can enhance organizational cybersecurity strategies.
- Online master's program addressing evolving cyber threats
- Curriculum developed with industry partner insights
- Flexible graduate certificates available
Champlain College
Burlington, VT - Private 4-year - champlain.edu
Master's - MBA with Cybersecurity Specialization
Concentration: Cybersecurity - Online Learning - Visit Website
Champlain College offers an innovative MBA with a Cybersecurity Specialization, tailored for professionals aiming to merge leadership skills with cutting-edge cybersecurity expertise. This online program stands out by blending strategic business management with in-depth cybersecurity practices, equipping students to tackle modern digital threats effectively. Graduates emerge ready to lead in securing organizational assets against cyber risks, making it ideal for those looking to advance in tech leadership roles. Program highlights include advanced cybersecurity leadership training, a focus on technology risk management, and the strategic integration of business and technical skills.
- Advanced cybersecurity leadership training
- Technology risk management specialization
- Strategic business and technical integration
Pace University
New York, NY - Private 4-year - pace.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Cyber Operations - Online Learning - Visit Website
Pace University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Cyber Operations is a 100% online program designed for professionals aiming to specialize in combating digital threats. This STEM-designated program, requiring no GMAT/GRE, offers a flexible schedule allowing completion in one year full-time or two years part-time. The curriculum, aligned with NSA standards, focuses on hands-on learning in cyber operations, preparing graduates for roles like Cybersecurity Specialist. Highlights include virtual labs and a tuition-competitive structure, making it an excellent choice for those seeking advancement in cybersecurity.
- 100% online with flexible full/part-time options
- NSA-standard courses with hands-on learning
- Two specialized cybersecurity concentrations available
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Cybersecurity Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at Pace University, concentrating on Cybersecurity Leadership, is tailored for professionals aspiring to lead in the cybersecurity domain. This online, STEM-designated program can be completed in as little as one year, with no GMAT/GRE requirement. It emphasizes developing leadership skills alongside technical expertise in network defense and ethical hacking, supported by a CAE-CDE designated curriculum. Ideal for those targeting executive roles, the program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application.
- 100% online STEM-designated cybersecurity master's degree
- Complete program in 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
- CAE-CDE designated with NSA-standard curriculum
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pace University offers a comprehensive online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers in the cybersecurity field. This STEM-designated program, requiring no GMAT/GRE, provides flexibility with full-time and part-time options, allowing completion in one to two years. Students can choose between Cyber Operations and Cybersecurity Leadership concentrations, gaining hands-on experience in ethical hacking and cyber intelligence. The program's NSA-standard curriculum ensures graduates are well-prepared for high-demand cybersecurity roles.
- 100% online, complete in 1-2 years
- NSA-standard curriculum with virtual labs
- Two specialized concentration options
Wayland Baptist University
Plainview, TX - Private 4-year - wbu.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Health Care Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
Wayland Baptist University's MBA in Health Care Administration is tailored for professionals aiming to lead in the healthcare sector. This online program blends business acumen with healthcare-specific knowledge, preparing graduates for leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. The curriculum covers healthcare policy, economics, and management, ensuring a well-rounded education. Highlights include a fully online format, expert faculty guidance, and a focus on real-world applications. Ideal for busy professionals, this program offers the flexibility to balance work and study while advancing in the healthcare field.
- Fully online MBA with multiple specialization tracks
- Flexible learning environment for working professionals
- Advised by Business School Dean and faculty
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Human Resource Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
The MBA in Human Resource Management at Wayland Baptist University equips students with the skills to excel in HR leadership. This online program emphasizes strategic HR practices, labor relations, and organizational development. Designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers, it offers a flexible learning environment and the opportunity to specialize in HR. The program stands out for its practical approach, preparing graduates to tackle contemporary HR challenges effectively. With courses available entirely online, students can pursue their degree without interrupting their professional lives.
- 100% Online MBA with flexible learning options
- Multiple specializations to match career trajectories
- Designed for working professionals seeking advancement
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Information Systems - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arizona offers an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Information Systems, designed for professionals aiming to safeguard digital infrastructures. This 33-credit program blends technical and managerial perspectives, focusing on risk management, threat intelligence, and system security. With a curriculum developed by faculty from both Engineering and Management, students are equipped to address contemporary cybersecurity challenges. Priced at $1,332 per credit, the program features flexible online learning and accelerated courses, making it ideal for working professionals. Highlights include interdisciplinary learning and specialized tracks in Information and Physical Systems.
- Interdisciplinary cybersecurity master's degree
- Two specialized tracks: Information and Physical Systems
- Flexible online format with accelerated courses
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Physical Systems - Online Learning - Visit Website
Tailored for professionals navigating the complexities of digital security, the University of Arizona's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity with a Physical Systems concentration offers a 33-credit curriculum. This program merges engineering and management disciplines to provide a robust foundation in system defense and threat intelligence. Students benefit from the flexibility of online courses, accelerated 7-week terms, and six annual admission cycles. At $1,332 per credit, it's a strategic investment for those seeking to lead in cybersecurity. Standout features include hands-on ethical hacking experiences and a choice between Information and Physical Systems tracks.
- Nationally recognized cybersecurity academic excellence.
- Flexible tracks in Information and Physical Systems.
- Hands-on learning with ethical hacking techniques.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Daytona Beach, FL - Private 4-year - worldwide.erau.edu
Master's - Master of Aviation Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide offers a Master of Aviation Cybersecurity, an online program designed for professionals aiming to address cybersecurity challenges within the aviation sector. This program stands out by focusing on the aviation ecosystem, teaching students to safeguard critical aviation technologies against cyber threats. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering avionics, air traffic control systems, and aerospace operations, preparing graduates for high-demand roles with an average salary of $95,000. It emphasizes both technical expertise and strategic leadership, equipping students with the skills to develop and implement cybersecurity measures tailored to the aviation industry's specific needs.
- 30 total credit hours
- Fully online program
- Focuses on aviation ecosystem
- Competitive $95k average salary
- Leadership-oriented curriculum
- Technical and non-technical training
- Covers operational technology risks
Friends University
Wichita, KS - Private 4-year - friends.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Cyber Security - Online Learning - Visit Website
Friends University's MBA in Cybersecurity is a premier online program designed for professionals aiming to master digital security challenges. Ranked #19 nationally, it focuses on vulnerability identification, security policy development, and cyber risk management. This program is tailored for those seeking to advance their careers in the tech-driven business world, offering practical skills in risk analysis and strategic security management. Highlights include its national ranking, practical security risk management skills, and strategies for cyber policy and vulnerability mitigation.
- Develop practical security risk management skills
- Learn cyber policy and vulnerability mitigation strategies
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Change Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
The MBA in Cybersecurity at Friends University provides an in-depth exploration of digital threat combat, offering skills in security risk analysis, legal aspects, and policy development. Recognized as #19 among online cybersecurity MBA programs in 2019, it's perfect for professionals aiming to bolster organizational digital resilience and safeguard information assets. The program emphasizes practical tools for vulnerability identification and the development of legal and ethical cybersecurity policies.
- Practical tools for identifying digital vulnerabilities
- Legal and ethical cybersecurity policy development
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Health Care Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Friends University presents an MBA concentration in Cybersecurity, focusing on equipping professionals with essential skills to tackle digital threats. This program covers security risk analysis, legal and ethical considerations, and strategies for cyber protection policies, making it ideal for those looking to merge technological and managerial expertise in the digital age. Highlights include its ranking among the best online cybersecurity MBAs, skills in threat identification and mitigation, and practical security policy development.
- Learn cyber threat identification and mitigation.
- Develop practical security policy skills.
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO - Public 4-Year - uccs.edu
Master's - Masters in Business Administration (MBA) - Cybersecurity Management Track
Concentration: Cybersecurity Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs provides an MBA with a Cybersecurity Management Track, blending business acumen with cybersecurity expertise. This program, available online or on-campus, is tailored for professionals aiming to lead in the intersection of business and technology. It emphasizes developing skills to tackle digital threats, offering a curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership roles in cybersecurity within various industries. Highlights include flexible learning options and a focus on meeting the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals.
- MBA with Cybersecurity Management Track
- Online and on-campus options
- Flexible for various backgrounds
- Develops cybersecurity business skills
- Meets industry workforce needs
Master's - Masters in Business Administration (MBA) - Cybersecurity Management Track
Online Learning - Visit Website
Offering a 100% online MBA with a Cybersecurity Management emphasis, the University of Colorado Colorado Springs prepares students for the challenges of securing digital assets in the business world. This 36-credit hour program covers essential topics like enterprise information security and governance, through a mix of core business and specialized cybersecurity courses. Designed for career advancement, it equips professionals with the knowledge to manage cyber risks effectively, supported by flexible course options and a focus on current technologies.
- 100% Online MBA Program
- Cybersecurity Management Emphasis
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- Four Specialized Cybersecurity Courses
- Flexible Course Options
- Professional Career Enhancement
- Technologies and Governance Focus
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME - Public 4-Year - usm.maine.edu
Master's - Cybersecurity, M.S.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Southern Maine provides an innovative M.S. in Cybersecurity program, designed for those aiming to lead in the digital security domain. This 30-credit online program, a collaboration with the University of Maine at Augusta, equips students with the expertise to address sophisticated cybersecurity issues in various sectors. Offering both thesis and capstone tracks, it caters to individuals with a preference for academic research or professional application. The coursework emphasizes a balance of foundational theories and hands-on skills, covering essential topics such as network security, cyber legislation, and digital forensics.
- Online master's degree in cutting-edge cybersecurity field
- Flexible thesis or capstone project options
- 30-credit comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN - Public 4-Year - utk.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Business Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's online Master of Science in Business Cybersecurity (MSBC) is tailored for professionals aiming to excel in the cybersecurity domain. This program uniquely combines technical cybersecurity expertise with essential business acumen, equipping students to tackle modern security threats effectively. Participants will delve into risk management, organizational security strategies, and the latest technological advancements, all designed to meet the high demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals. The program's online delivery ensures flexibility, enabling students to manage their studies alongside professional responsibilities. Graduates emerge ready to lead in protecting digital assets and ensuring business continuity in an increasingly digital world.
- 100% online Master of Science in Business Cybersecurity
- Addresses global cybersecurity talent shortage
- Flexible learning for working professionals
MBA in Cybersecurity Management Curriculum: What Classes Will I Take?
Most MBA programs in Cybersecurity Management take 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated format.
Core Courses in an MBA in Cybersecurity Management
The curriculum for a Cybersecurity Management MBA specialization blends business security strategy with technical cybersecurity expertise through courses such as:
- Cybersecurity Risk Management & Governance
- Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing
- Cloud Security & Data Protection
- Regulatory Compliance & Cyber Law
- Threat Intelligence & Incident Response
- Digital Forensics & Fraud Prevention
- Enterprise Security Architecture
- Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Planning
Many programs also incorporate cybersecurity research projects, including real-world cyberattack simulations, security policy development, and risk management case studies. Some students complete internships with significant cybersecurity firms, government agencies, or corporate security departments to gain practical experience before graduation.
What Career Options Do I Have with an MBA in Cybersecurity Management?
A Cybersecurity Management MBA specialization prepares graduates for cybersecurity governance and IT security leadership roles. Typical job titles include:
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) – Leads enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy and risk management.
- Cybersecurity Manager – Oversees an organization’s security policies, threat assessments, and data protection strategies.
- IT Security Consultant – Advises businesses on cybersecurity best practices and compliance requirements.
- Incident Response Director – Manages responses to cyberattacks and security breaches.
- Risk & Compliance Manager – Ensures businesses meet security regulations and prevent financial and legal risks.
Salary Expectations
Salaries for MBA in Cybersecurity Management graduates vary based on industry, experience, and expertise. According to BLS and Cybersecurity Ventures, cybersecurity professionals with an MBA typically earn:
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) – $200,000+
- Cybersecurity Manager – $120,000 – $180,000
- IT Security Consultant – $110,000 – $160,000
- Incident Response Director – $130,000 – $190,000
- Risk & Compliance Manager – $100,000 – $150,000
Take the Next Step Toward a Cybersecurity Leadership Role
An MBA in Cybersecurity Management provides the expertise to protect organizations from cyber threats, develop risk management strategies, and implement secure business practices. Whether you want to lead corporate cybersecurity teams, manage IT security policies, or develop enterprise-wide threat response strategies, this degree will give you the knowledge, skills, and network to achieve your career goals.
Explore top-ranked MBA in Cybersecurity Management programs today and start advancing your career.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Cybersecurity & IT Security Careers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/
- Cybersecurity Ventures. (2023). Global Cybercrime & Cybersecurity Report. Retrieved from https://cybersecurityventures.com/